Dark Opal basil seeds
Dark Opal basil is by far the flashiest and most stunning basil varieties. It was awarded in 1962 at the All-American Selection awards. It was developed at the University of CT in the '50s. The leaves are a burgundy color and only intensify as the plant matures. When it's younger, you will see some leaves are purple and green mottled, almost like marble. This basil is grown for its beauty and its flavor, as an ornamental and an herb.
The flavor of dark opal basil is very similar to sweet basil. This basil lends itself best to fresh salads, dried for teas, basil vinegar, and pasta sauces, especially a purple pesto. Dark Opal will grow to be 12 - 18 inches. If left to bloom, the plant will develop very light, fragrant lilac flowers. You can cut the tips off as they flower to prolong the leaf production and make the basil more bush-like. This can be grown with green basil to create a visually appealing contrast to your herb garden.
Seed count: 100
Botanic name:
Ocimum basilicum 'Purpurascens'
Plant spacing:
4 - 8 inches apart
Color:
Dark burgundy leaves
Sowing depth:
1/4 inch
Sun requirements:
Full sun / part shade
Utilization:
Herb salads, dressings, garnishes, desserts, dried, or grown to deter pests.
Frost Hardy:
No
Maturity days:
60 - 70 days
Life cycle:
Annual
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Sweet Basil 'Dark Opal', Purple Ruffles basil
Vine Habit:
